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Selecting the strongest starting XV in a big match game seems more and more outdated today, evoking memories of bygone days like classic TV shows. So much so where you could almost expect to see this England selection to face the All Blacks this weekend displayed in a reversed order. Even with New Zealand in town, the traditional way for choosing players no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Instead, it's all about how the match ends. On this occasion, Steve Borthwick has selected six British & Irish Lions for the substitutes compared to just four among the first XV. At some point during the second half point this weekend, there will be an extensive change involving fresh players entering play. Similar to the Springboks' famous "Bomb Squad" have shown, this tactic can be extremely tough for opponents.

Possible Challenge

But, comes one small snag. While facing one of the globe's second-best sides, it is essential to start well as well. Waiting until the introduction of key replacements such as Ellis Genge and others might appear not so brilliant should the All Blacks build a significant advantage early on, as they did versus the Scots at Murrayfield.

Yet that's today's way for you. And not many know more knowledgeable about this topic than the England coach, as he spent multiple games as an unused substitute during his playing days.

Past Context

Among those occasions, he recalled recently, was a notable Test against the All Blacks in Wellington back in 2003, where the forwards were reduced down because of disciplinary issues. Even then, he along with other substitutes stayed on the sidelines for the entire match.

On the other hand, during a match in Italy earlier, Clive Woodward introduced multiple England captains after the hour mark, strategy famously referred to like "the most illustrious substitutes ever."

Today's Strategy

This England substitute choices nearly matches those in terms of "Big Dog" energy, as the team obviously aiming to catch the opposition in the final 20 minutes. "Each match we've faced versus them has gone late," the coach stated. "Therefore we need suitable personnel available to finish the game... utilizing such a degree of know-how on the bench is a key advantage for us."

Fan Considerations

There will be fans spending premium rates for seats at the stadium wondering if reduced pricing might be available if matches now effectively hinge on just 20-odd minutes rather than the full 80 minutes. Seriously, however, there is a further quietly persuasive explanation: that Borthwick's trust toward younger players such as Joe Heyes has grown sufficiently deep that England's "best" first lineup is not precisely what many supporters would assume.

Selection Choices

If that makes him to be "a bold coach" remains not something he inclined to talk about – "I'm not into tags... I try and pick the best team possible to get success" – yet the team's current streak of nine victories in a row has reinforced the view how Test rugby is increasingly an entire squad effort.

"I think each player understands this is a team endeavor. All the players here assisting us prepare all play a part. That kind of selfless mindset hasn't always existed the case with England team. That was not my experience when I was playing."

Tough Judgments

Some delicate choices are having to be made, even so, with injuries of certain players. Borthwick additionally notes that "blessed with options" in key positions, and this time, the decision one club's Fin Smith that misses out entirely. Given the damp conditions expected, the selection of George Ford at No 10 is not a major shock, while the security the All Blacks' back three under high balls will likely to be examined frequently.

Experience plus Versatility

Then, there is the added importance of experience and the need for substitute player who can fill in other positions, especially as another individual still completely ready. "It was possible to picked either of the three playmakers and be sat now saying about how each is the right choice because I think each one is terrific," Borthwick commented. "George provides very calm presence and has the ability to bring everyone together and [put] them on to the front foot. It's what I'll be looking for from him to do this weekend."

Final Thoughts

Will it prove sufficient? The team were defeated in all meetings by New Zealand last year with a combined difference of just a small amount, and in terms of taking chances, the opposition remain highly effective ever. Given this event, it's likely every chance of a close contest which potentially boil down to the final stages. Which is exactly what the England setup is expecting.